“Just Kidding,” by Rita Dove
“Just Kidding,” by Rita Dove
A poem by Rita Dove, where the setup of a priest, a rabbi, and a poet walking into a bar becomes a meditation on clashing philosophies, expectations of humor, and the shared human need for solace. The poem subverts the typical punchline structure to explore deeper themes of desperation and connection.
Note
leave it to a poet to give space not just to the bartender, but the bar itself.
Published
2026
Summary
A poem by Rita Dove, where the setup of a priest, a rabbi, and a poet walking into a bar becomes a meditation on clashing philosophies, expectations of humor, and the shared human need for solace. The poem subverts the typical punchline structure to explore deeper themes of desperation and connection.
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